How can I tame a wild natural area in my yard?

Allison
by Allison
  7 answers
  • Vimarhonor Vimarhonor on Jan 19, 2020

    Hello could you possibly post a photograph to better see your landscaped situation and area of concern?


    Having a visual might be helpful to be able to offer the best guidance .....to a help find the best suggestions or potential solution for your problem.


    When an overwhelming situation presents sometimes tackling projects in stages can help. Whether weeds, overgrown trees/shrubs or overgrown brush- a targeted in a solution plan in a systemic way might be helpful. Again —a photograph might help us develop a plan for your project.


    Sometimes the use of native plants to establish landscaping can be beneficial. Avoiding use of invasive plants might be important.


    Additionally for the best local professional advice

    I would highly suggest contacting your cooperative extension. These offices are manned by volunteer master gardeners on site there waiting to answer the communities questions that know your local situation quite well.

    Master gardeners are required to volunteer back designated hours ( plus continuing education) each year to maintain MG certification -this community outreach and education is their goal.

    Best wishes in your landscaping adventures!

  • Michelle Leslie Michelle Leslie on Jan 19, 2020

    Hi Allison. I often find that the biggest hurdle you need to conquer is not seeing the "out of control" area as a HUGE "out of control area". Tackle on space at a time. Here's a lovely tutorial that will help you tacle it - https://blog.fantasticservices.com/how-to-clear-overgrown-garden/

  • Rosalie Rogers Rosalie Rogers on Jan 19, 2020

    Hard work for a start! The area has to be cleared and weed proofed before you can do anything. My landscaper weeeded and then laid down some material to prevent weed regrowth. That was just the beginning!!

  • Dee Dee on Jan 19, 2020

    How large is this natural area? You can always edge it with a shovel and try to keep everything contained. Or use bricks and decorative stone edging. If there are trees and bushes, use a trimmer to keep them under control. Mulch will help the grassy areas.

    Use hot water and vinegar for a weed killer.

    • See 1 previous
    • Dee Dee on Jan 19, 2020

      I have used Boiling hot water with epsom salt or rock salt with vinegar and it does work.

  • Mel Mel on Jan 19, 2020

    Depending on how big and what you want to do with it after, mow it all down then lay black plastic on top, weighted down. That will kill anything underneath. Takes a few weeks but then makes it easier to roto till.

  • Sharon Sharon on Jan 19, 2020

    I get out there with my weed whacker, pruning shears, and a garbage can with contractor bags to remove the debri.

  • Redcatcec Redcatcec on Jan 19, 2020

    It sounds like there is overgrowth that is taking over. To start with clear out what you can most easily get to and keep cutting, bagging, and composting )if possible). Have the right tools for the job and protective clothing. This is a small start and as you progress, it becomes more manageable as you make headway. See if you can get some help for this project, that will take some of the burden off you. There might be some teens who would like to earn some money.